Difference Between Differential and Derivative

The basic differences between Differential and Derivative are added in the table below,

Differential Vs Derivative

Differential

Derivative

Represents the infinitesimal change in a function or variable.

Represents the rate of change of a function at a point or over an interval.

Denoted by “d” followed by the variable.

Denoted by prime notation.

Measures the change in the dependent variable.

Measures the rate of change of the dependent variable.

Indicates the change in the function with respect to an independent variable.

Indicates the slope or gradient of the function at a specific point.

Can be used to calculate the total change by integrating over an interval.

Can be used to find the slope of the tangent line or the instantaneous rate of change.

Represents the incremental or local change.

Represents the average or instantaneous change.

It is useful in physics, engineering, and calculus.

Fundamental concepts in the calculus and mathematical analysis.

It enables the calculation of the small changes in quantities.

It enables studying functions and their behavior

Now let’s learn about, Differential and Derivative in brief

Difference Between Differential and Derivative

Differential and Derivative both are related but they are not the same. The main difference between differential and derivative is that a differential is an infinitesimal change in a variable, while a derivative is a measure of how much the function changes for its input.

In this article, we will explore the difference between differential and derivative and understand their roles in calculus.

Similar Reads

Difference Between Differential and Derivative

The basic differences between Differential and Derivative are added in the table below,...

What is Differential?

In mathematics, the term “differential” refers to an infinitesimal change in the function or variable. It represents the small or incremental change in a quantity or function. The concept of differentials is closely related to calculus specifically differential calculus....

What is Derivative?

In mathematics, the derivative is a fundamental concept in the calculus that represents the rate of change of a function with respect to its independent variable. It measures how a function’s output value changes when the input variable changes. The derivative provides information about the slope or gradient of a function at a particular point or over an interval....

Conclusion

In conclusion, differential and derivative are related concepts in calculus but serve different purposes. The differential represents an infinitesimal change in a function or variable and is denoted by “d” followed by the variable. It captures the small or incremental change in a quantity and is useful for the approximating changes in the functions and calculating total changes through integration. On the other hand, the derivative represents the rate of change of a function with the respect to its independent variable. It measures how the output value of the function changes as the input variable changes....

Differential and Derivative – FAQs

What is the difference between Derivative and Differential?...

Contact Us